estirar la pata (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

"Estirar la pata" is an idiomatic expression in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/estiˈɾaɾ la ˈpata/

Translation Options into English

• To stretch the leg
• To kick the bucket (informally meaning to die)

Meaning and Usage

The phrase "estirar la pata" is a colloquial expression used primarily in informal speech. Its primary meaning is to refer to death, akin to the English expression "kick the bucket." It is not commonly found in formal writing but may appear in dialogues in literature or casual conversations.

The frequency of usage is moderate in spoken language, especially in contexts where humor or informal tones are appropriate. It carries a light-hearted connotation despite referring to a serious topic.

Example Sentences

1. Estaba muy enfermo y temía que iba a estirar la pata.

2. He was very sick and feared he was going to kick the bucket.

3. Dicen que el abuelo ya está viejo, pero no creo que esté a punto de estirar la pata.

4. They say that grandpa is already old, but I don't think he is about to kick the bucket.

5. Después de tantos años de aventura, ambos amigos decidieron que no querían estirar la pata sin visitar el mundo.

6. After so many years of adventure, both friends decided they didn’t want to kick the bucket without visiting the world.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Estirar la pata" is often used in various idiomatic expressions in colloquial speech. Here are a few examples: 1. Cuando el perro estiró la pata, sus dueños supieron que era hora de despedirse. - When the dog kicked the bucket, its owners knew it was time to say goodbye.

1. Si sigues fumando, vas a estirar la pata antes de lo que te imaginas.

2. If you keep smoking, you’re going to kick the bucket sooner than you think.

3. La vida es corta, así que vive al máximo antes de estirar la pata.

4. Life is short, so live it to the fullest before you kick the bucket.

5. Al saber que le quedaba poco tiempo, decidió cumplir su sueño antes de estirar la pata.

6. Knowing that he had little time left, he decided to fulfill his dream before kicking the bucket.

Etymology

The phrase "estirar la pata" literally translates to "to stretch the leg," which is thought to originate from the idea of a corpse being laid out with legs extended. The use of "pata," which means "leg" but can also refer to the legs of certain animals or be used colloquially for people, adds a layer of informality and humor.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms: - Morir (to die) - Fallecer (to pass away)

Antonyms: - Nacer (to be born) - Vivir (to live)

This expression reflects the unique way colloquial Spanish can give a humorous twist to topics typically seen as serious, showcasing the richness and playfulness of the language.